Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle hands on treatment that works with the movement of fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It was pioneered and developed by osteopathic physician John Upledger following extensive scientific studies from 1975 to 1983 at Michigan State University, where he served as a clinical researcher and Professor of Biomechanics.

When treating a client using CST, the client is fully clothed and usually lying on a massage table. The practitioner will assess the craniosacral rhythm (CSR) by placing hands somewhere on the body, often at the feet. The wave, or movement of the CSR can be felt moving throughout the body via the nervous system and the fascia. When accessing the rhythm the practitioner can detect restrictions or strains in the tissue or misalignment of the bones. Using very light pressure, usually five grams (the weight of a nickel) or less, the practitioner encourages the body to release the strain/restriction. This allows the body to return to fuller function.

Because of the gentle nature of the work, craniosacral therapy is helpful when working with infants and children . Some of the conditions it can address are reflux, turning the head to one side, feeding issues, irritability, sleep issues and misshapen heads.

In adults, CST can address joint pain, digestive issues, PTSD, headaches, TMJ and depression/anxiety among others.

Wanda has studied craniosacral therapy with the Upledger program, Roger Gilcrest, Michael Shea, and Carol Gray in Portland Oregon. Wanda has been integrating CST into her massage practice for a number of years. Recently, after taking an intensive study in infant CST, she has begun treating more infants in her practice. Because of her many years practicing as a doula and offering pre and post-natal massage, Wanda is very familiar with the issues of infancy and new families.

If you would like to schedule a session with Wanda or learn more about her practice please email Wanda.

Photos by Burning Silver Photography.